A shocking crime has shaken the trucking industry and local community in Crestwood, Illinois. Dane Koteski, 46, the CEO of ATG Truckload, was found dead inside the company’s offices after a fire broke out on March 5. Authorities later determined his death was a homicide caused by neck injuries inflicted with a sharp object.
Fire Leads to Disturbing Discovery
The tragic events unfolded when police responded to a fire at ATG Truckload’s office in Crestwood. A concerned caller had reported heavy smoke coming from the building, prompting emergency responders to rush to the scene. Upon arrival, firefighters discovered Koteski’s body inside the burning structure.
The Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office later confirmed that Koteski had died from severe neck injuries, not from the fire itself. His death was immediately ruled a homicide, and an arson investigation was launched.
Employee Arrested at Michigan Truck Stop
Within hours of the investigation, authorities identified a suspect—one of Koteski’s own employees. Law enforcement quickly determined that the crime was an isolated event, specifically targeting Koteski, according to the Crestwood Police Department and South Suburban Major Crimes Task Force.
The unnamed suspect was tracked down and arrested at a truck stop in Holland, Michigan. They are currently being held at the Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office on a murder warrant and are expected to be extradited back to Illinois by the end of the week.
Remembering Dane Koteski
The shocking crime has devastated the local community and the trucking industry.
Neighbors and colleagues described Koteski as a dedicated businessman and a loving father. According to Darlene Adams, a neighbor, he was originally from Macedonia, attended a local Serbian church, and was deeply committed to his family.
“It seems to me he goes to work early and comes home, takes care of his dogs and sees his son,” Adams told WGN9. “I’ve noticed things have been very different this week. I had no idea why.”
Source:
https://people.com/illinois-ceo-found-dead-inside-burning-building-employee-arrested-11695648
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